Cambiar su nombre en Iowa

Última Actualización: July 30, 2025

Si usted desea cambiar legalmente su nombre o el nombre de su hijo, hay ciertos pasos que debe tomar. Estos pasos varían dependiendo de si el cambio de nombre es para un adulto o un menor de edad.

Cambio de nombre para adultos:

Hay tres maneras en que un adulto puede cambiar su nombre.

First, an adult can change their name after getting married by completing a marriage license. You can apply for this type of license at your local county recorder’s office, either in person or by email.

  • Usted, su futuro esposo y un testigo que tenga 18 años o más deben presentarse con una identificación con foto al firmar ante el notario la solicitud para casarse.
  • Las solicitudes solo se pueden obtener en una oficina de registros del condado, ya sea en persona o por correo.
  • También, hay una cuota de $35 (a pagar en el momento de hacer la solicitud).
  • There is a 3-day waiting period after your application is accepted for your marriage license to become valid, and it is only valid for six months from the date of application.
  • El condado en el que usted registra la licencia de matrimonio y el acta de matrimonio no tiene que ser el mismo condado donde tiene lugar la ceremonia.
  • Una vez que la ceremonia de matrimonio se ha realizado y el acta de matrimonio completada se ha devuelto a la oficina de registros, usted recibirá una copia certificada que usará para actualizar su tarjeta de seguro social, licencia para conducir, etc.

Second, an adult can change his or her name as part of a divorce proceeding.

  • Esto sucede generalmente cuando un cónyuge que está en proceso de divorcio desea volver a tener su apellido de soltera. En un divorcio, una persona solo puede cambiar su nombre por el nombre que aparece en su acta de nacimiento o por el nombre legal que la persona tenía inmediatamente antes del matrimonio.
  • Si usted está buscando un cambio de nombre como parte de un divorcio pendiente, incluya su solicitud de cambio de nombre en su petición (si usted es el demandante en la acción de divorcio) o en su respuesta (si usted es el demandado en la acción de divorcio).

Third, an adult can file a petition for a name change in district court. The petition must include the following information:

  • El nombre actual de la persona.
  • El condado donde vive la persona.
  • Una descripción de la persona; incluyendo la estatura, el peso, el color de cabello y ojos, el sexo y el lugar y la fecha de nacimiento.
  • El lugar o los lugares donde la persona ha vivido durante los últimos cinco años.
  • El motivo de la solicitud.
  • Una descripción legal de todos los bienes raíces en Iowa que la persona posea o en los que la persona tiene algún interés legal.
  • El nuevo nombre que la persona desea tener.

También se debe incluir en la petición una copia certificada del acta de nacimiento de la persona. Si el acta de nacimiento de la persona no está disponible, la persona debe explicar por qué no está disponible y proporcionar otra forma de identificación. Hay una tarifa de presentación en el tribunal de $195 y usted debe presentar su petición electrónicamente, a menos que obtenga permiso del tribunal para presentarla en papel. Si la persona está casada, su cónyuge debe ser notificado de la petición, lo que tendrá un costo determinado por el alguacil local. En el sitio web del poder judicial se ha creado el formulario “Petición de cambio de nombre (Adulto)” disponible al público de forma gratuita. Este formulario se puede completar y presentar ante el secretario del tribunal del distrito. El formulario se puede encontrar en:
http://www.iowacourts.gov/Court_Rules_Forms/Name_Change_Forms/

Tenga en cuenta 

que el nombre de una persona solo se puede cambiar una vez presentando una petición en el tribunal del distrito, a menos de que se pueda dar una muy buena razón al juez. Esta restricción no se aplica al cambio de nombre en un procedimiento de divorcio.  

Cambio de nombre para menores de edad:

El proceso de cambio de nombre para los menores de edad es similar al de los adultos. Hay dos formas de cambiar el nombre de un menor de edad.

La primera opción es por una acción pendiente sobre la custodia de un menor de edad, o por una acción de divorcio pendiente para los padres del niño.

  • Si usted es el demandante en la acción pendiente, incluya su solicitud de cambio de nombre en su petición.
  • Si usted es el demandado en la acción pendiente, incluya su solicitud de cambio de nombre en su respuesta.

La segunda opción es que el progenitor del niño presente una petición para un cambio de nombre al secretario del tribunal del distrito. La cuota para hacerlo es también de $195. La petición debe incluir:

  • El nombre actual del niño y el condado donde vive.
  • El nombre del progenitor que presenta la petición y su relación con el niño.
  • Una descripción del niño incluyendo la altura, el peso, el color del cabello y los ojos, la raza, el sexo y el lugar y la fecha del nacimiento.
  • El lugar o los lugares donde el niño ha vivido durante los últimos cinco años.
  • La razón para pedir un cambio de nombre.
  • El nombre nuevo que se pide para el niño.

Debe adjuntarse a la petición una copia certificada del acta de nacimiento del niño. Si el acta de nacimiento del niño no está disponible, usted debe explicar por qué no está disponible y proporcionar otra forma de identificación.

Si el niño es menor de catorce años:

  • Ambos progenitores que aparecen en el acta de nacimiento deben presentar su consentimiento (acuerdo) al cambio de nombre.
  • Si uno de los progenitores no da su consentimiento para el cambio de nombre, el tribunal fijará una audiencia.
  • En la audiencia, el tribunal puede suspender la necesidad de consentimiento de ambos progenitores (lo que significa que solo el consentimiento de un progenitor sería necesario) si encuentra uno de los siguientes casos:
    • El progenitor que no da su consentimiento ha abandonado al niño.
    • El progenitor que no da su consentimiento ha recibido una orden de contribuir con la manutención del niño o ayudar económicamente con el nacimiento del niño y no lo ha hecho sin una buena razón.
    • El progenitor que no da su consentimiento no se opone al cambio de nombre después de haber recibido aviso debido y adecuado.

Si el niño tiene catorce años o más,

la petición debe incluir el consentimiento escrito del niño para el cambio de nombre. En el sitio web de los tribunales de Iowa se ha creado un formulario, “Petición para cambiar el nombre de un hijo menor de edad” disponible al público de forma gratuita. El formulario se puede encontrar en: https://www.iowacourts.gov/for-the-public/court-forms/

Para órdenes judiciales que conceden un cambio de nombre,

tanto para adultos como para menores, el secretario del tribunal proporcionará una copia certificada del “decreto de cambio de nombre”.

Pasos siguientes:

después de cambiar su nombre, hay varios pasos que debe tomar para cambiar el resto de sus registros.

First, you must update your birth certificate. If you were born in Iowa, both adults and children must complete a “Summary to Change Legal Name of Recorded Person on Birth Certificate.” You can obtain this form by calling Iowa Vital Records at (515) 281-4944. The completed form must be signed by the district court clerk. Next, you must mail the form, a certified copy of the court order for the name change, and $20 (check or money order) to the Iowa Department of Health. Processing time is approximately 4-6 weeks.  

Second, you need to update your Social Security card. To do this, you must complete Form SS-5 (available at  https://www.ssa.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf ), provide proof of U.S. citizenship (if not already on file) or lawful presence in the U.S. (e.g., a certificate of citizenship, a work visa, and a printed copy of Form I-94 or a U.S. passport), a certified copy of your name change order, and proof of identity. Proof of identity can be a driver’s license, a state-issued identification card, a U.S. passport, an employer identification card, a school ID, a health insurance card, or a U.S. military ID. You can submit these documents to the Social Security Administration (SSA) or take them to your local office. It usually takes about 14 business days for the SSA to mail your new card.

Una vez que haya actualizado su acta de nacimiento y su tarjeta de seguro social, usted debe cambiar su nombre en cualquier licencia para conducir de Iowa o identificación con foto que pueda tener. Hay un cobro de $10. Es necesario hacer el cambio de nombre en persona y usted necesita tener una copia certificada de su acta de nacimiento actualizada, tarjeta de seguro social y dos documentos que establezcan su residencia en Iowa (p. ej. factura de servicios públicos, estado de cuenta bancaria, estado de cuenta de tarjetas de crédito/débito, pieza de correo que incluya un matasello o tarjeta de identificación de Iowa que no haya estado vencida por más de un año). Las fotocopias o documentos recibidos por fax NO serán aceptados. Una copia certificada es la que contiene el sello original y el certificado del tribunal o registro en vez de un sello simple de archivo o de fecha. Usted puede visitar https://iowadot.gov/mvd/realid/success.aspx para verificar cuáles son los documentos que necesita presentar. Contacte a su oficina local del Departamento de Transporte (DOT, por sus siglas en inglés) para obtener más información y las horas de oficina.

Finally, you must update all your records to reflect your name change. This may include your health insurance and doctors, bank accounts, credit card companies, utility companies, post office, voter registration, etc.

Iowa Legal Aid provides assistance to low-income Iowa residents.

Para solicitar ayuda de Iowa Legal Aid:

  • Llame al 800-532-1275.
  • Residentes de Iowa de 60 años o más, llamen al 800-992-8161.
  • Solicite en línea visitando iowalegalaid.org

Si Iowa Legal Aid no puede ayudar, busque un abogado en “Find a Lawyer” en el sitio web de la Asociación de Abogados del Estado de Iowa visitando iowabar.org. Uno de esos abogados privados puede hablar con usted por una tarifa de $25 por 30 minutos de asesoramiento legal.
 
*Al leer esta información, recuerde que este artículo no es un sustituto de asesoramiento legal.

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Esta información es para alguien que nació en Iowa. Mi nombre o el nombre de mi bebé está escrito incorrectamente en el...

Divorcio en Iowa sin abogado

A mucha gente le preocupa el costo de contratar a un abogado cuando decide divorciarse en Iowa. El Tribunal Supremo de Iowa...

¿Qué Son las Políticas de la Escuela de su Hijo?

La mayoría de los padres ayudan a sus hijos a prepararse para la escuela al conseguir sus artículos escolares y la ropa de...

Préstamos del Día de Pago – ¡Una Conveniencia que no Puede Pagar!

Muchas personas de Iowa, incluyendo a personas de la tercera edad, están esperando por los préstamos del "Día de Pago" para...

Educación y las Escuelas

Muchas personas de edad escolar han sido desplazadas por las inundaciones de 2008. Estas personas tienen todos los derechos...

Are Your Legal Affairs in Order?

Background There are several reasons why Iowans, and especially elderly Iowans, should periodically review their legal...

What Happens When People Getting Social Security Disability Benefits Have Earned Income

Can I work while receiving Social Security Disability and SSI benefits from Social Security? Not everyone who gets...

Disasters Happen

In Iowa, natural disasters happen every year. Ice storms and blizzards can occur in the winter. Tornadoes, severe storms,...

How to Make Changes to Your Child’s Iowa Birth Certificate

This information is for someone who was born in Iowa. My name or my baby's name is spelled wrong on the Iowa birth...

Limited Representation (Unbundled Legal Services)

What is limited representation? Sometimes called: Limited scope representation Unbundled service Discreet legal...

Misconceptions About Common Law Marriage

Being married gives people certain legal rights. Many of these legal rights don't become important until the couple splits...

¿Qué es la discriminación de vivienda?

¿Qué es causa ilícita para el propietario? Bajo la ley de Iowa y la ley federal, un propietario o director de apartamento...

What to Consider Before Signing a Commercial Lease

Making Your Lease the Least of Your Problems You've finally found it, the perfect place to set up shop and open your...

Deudas “canceladas” pueden contar como ingreso imponible

Muchas personas no saben que tener una deuda "cancelada" o perdonada puede contar como ingreso imponible. Cuando un ingreso...

Preguntas y respuestas sobre el tribunal de menores

Los Tribunales de Menores generalmente se ocupan de casos relacionados con niños menores de dieciocho años.¿Qué tipos de...

Debts Owed to Federal Government Can Be Collected Through Social Security Benefit Checks

Social Security Benefits Subject to Offset to Collect Non-Tax Federal Debts The U.S. Department of Treasury and Social...

Preguntas y respuestas sobre custodia

¿Quién tiene la custodia cuando nace un hijo de una madre soltera? •    La madre suele tener la custodia de su hijo si no...

Inmigrantes y Cupones para Alimentos

Asistencia Alimentaria e Inmigrantes El Programa de Asistencia Alimentaria ayuda a prevenir el hambre en los Estados...

Recursos en caso de desastre

Ayuda general en caso de desastre: ● Recursos de autoayuda para desastres de Iowa Legal Aid. En Inglés. En Español. Los...

Reasons Landlords Might Deny Your Rental Application

Landlords might refuse to rent to you for various reasons. Common ones are: prior evictions on your record, criminal...

How Do I Get My Landlord to Make Repairs?

Wondering how to give notice to your landlord about needed repairs? In Iowa, tenants must follow specific legal steps...

Niños Tienen Derechos a la Educación

Todos los niños, sin importar su estado migratorio, tienen el derecho a asistir a escuelas públicas sin coste. La Corte...

Iowa Legal Aid Launches Project to Combat Elder Financial Abuse

Iowa Legal Aid recently launched its new Elder Justice Innovation Project, a statewide initiative focused on identifying...

Housing Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Anyone may have a hard time finding a rental unit he or she can afford. There is not enough low- and moderate-income...

Iowa’s Minor Guardianship Law

Sometimes neither parent can take care of a child. This could be due to death, disability, or some other reason. When this...

Divorce in Iowa Without an Attorney

Many people worry about the cost of hiring a lawyer when deciding whether to get divorced in Iowa. The Iowa Supreme Court...

Financiamiento de un carro usado

Cuando usted está buscando un nuevo carro usado, existen varios lugares donde lo puede comprar. Los concesionarios...

Public and Client Complaint Procedures

Complaint Procedures 2025Download New Address Iowa Legal Aid's central office has moved!  Please mail the Complaint...

Los reembolsos de impuestos de 2020 se van, se van, ¡ya casi se fueron…!

"¡No pierda su reembolso! Los reembolsos de impuestos de 2020 se van, se van, ¡ya casi se fueron…!”  los últimos años,...

Payment Options for Nursing Home Care

Nursing home care can be paid for through Medicare (although very limited), private pay, long-term care insurance or...

Attorney Profile: Get to Know Josh Gaul

Get to know Josh Gaul, Managing Attorney of Iowa Legal Aid’s Disaster Project and Rural Justice Project for Older Iowans....

Cuidado con los malos consejos sobre impuestos, y con personas no confiables que preparan declaraciones de impuestos.

Todo el mundo conoce el refrán que si aparece tan bueno que no puede ser verdad, probablemente no es verdad. Bueno, este...

Legal Separation – Separating Before Divorce

Why should I consider a separation from my spouse before I file for a divorce? A separation could provide insight into how...

Iowa Legal Aid Helps Resolve Roof and Insurance Dispute After Derecho

[et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_text] Iowa Legal Aid assisted “Michael,” an Iowa homeowner whose roof was severely damaged...

Resolviendo los problemas familiares con mediación

Muchas personas de Iowa sólo tienen contacto con el sistema judicial cuando tienen un problema con las leyes de familia....

Seguro Social (Social Security)

¿Qué sucede si no recibí mis últimos beneficios de Seguro Social o Ingreso de Seguridad Suplemental (Suplemental Security...

Food Stamps and Immigrants

The Food Assistance Program helps prevent hunger in America. This program helps buy food in stores, at farmers’ markets,...

Getting Emergency Medical Care

When must a hospital treat me? Hospitals must treat you - even if you don't have insurance - when you have an emergency...

Paternity Questions and Answers

How do I become the legal father or establish my "paternity" of a child? The term for becoming the legal father of a child...

How to Modify a Custody Order

Bob and Betty have two children: Charlie and Claire. Betty has custody of the children and Bob gets visits with them every...

Issues in Running Your Small Business

The easiest to overlook issues sometimes cause the biggest headaches.  If any of the following scenarios seem familiar...

Su Salud en el Lugar de Trabajo

Compensación por incapacidad de trabajo (indemnización por trabajadores que resultan lastimados en el lugar de trabajo) le...

Need Help With Medicare Expenses? Check Out the QMB and SLMB Programs

The State of Iowa offers the QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) and SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary)...

What Should I Do If I Get Court Papers?

Most people are afraid when they get court papers. Here is some advice on the court system and what to do if you get court...

Beneficios de Desempleo

Si pierde su trabajo, usted pudiera calificar por beneficios de desempleo.  Para ser elegible por beneficios de...

Creditor Threats – Are They for Real?

Health problems, job loss, the death of a spouse and other events can make it hard to pay your bills. Creditors and debt...

Homestead Exemption for 65 and older

In addition to the homestead tax credit, eligible claimants who own the home they live in and are 65 years of age or older...

Avoiding Fake Check Scams

Avoiding Fake Check Scams Scams involving fake checks are common.  There are also scams involving fake money orders....

Be on the Lookout for Tax Preparer Fraud

Unfortunately, some unscrupulous preparers have prepared false claims on tax returns using the promise of large refunds to...

Cómo Modificar una Orden de Custodia

Bob y Betty tienen dos hijos: Charlie y Claire. Betty tiene la custodia de los hijos y Bob puede visitarlos cada dos fines...

Iowa’s County Veterans Relief Program

If you are a veteran, you might be able to get financial help from the county in which you live. Each county must have a...

¿Puede la escuela obligarme a obtener una tutela para inscribir a los niños de los que estoy cuidando?

A veces, los padres no pueden hacerse cargo de sus hijos. Es posible que los padres hayan fallecido, o que estén enfermos o...

How to Talk to a Lawyer

Tips to get the most time out of talking to an attorney. When clients walk into our office or call us on the phone, we...

Pasaportes y Custodia de los Hijos

¿Necesito la custodia para tramitar el pasaporte de mi hijo? Hay reglas especiales para obtener un pasaporte para un niño...

Accidents with No (or Not Enough) Car Insurance

I was in a car accident that wasn’t my fault, but I didn’t have car insurance (or my insurance didn't cover the claimed...

Frequently Asked Questions about Guardianships and Conservatorships

Why would I need a guardianship or conservatorship? People in different situations may need a guardian or conservator: Some...

Razones por las que los propietarios podrían negarle a usted su solicitud de alquiler

Los propietarios podrían declinar alquilarle a usted por muchas razones diferentes. Las más comunes son: desalojos previos...

Standards and Principles of Supported and Substitute Decision-Making

Supported Decision-Making Supported decision-making uses tools and supports to help persons understand, make, and...

Orden de custodia para padres con casos CINA abiertos

Los padres involucrados en casos abiertos de Menor con Necesidad de Asistencia (CINA, por sus siglas en inglés) tienen una...

¡Todavía puede reclamar sus pagos de estímulo!

Primer y segundo cheque de estímulo Si no recibió ninguno de los dos primeros pagos de estímulo ($1200 por adulto/$500 por...

The Criminal Process in Domestic Abuse Cases

Any victim of a crime can file a criminal complaint against their assailant by contacting the police and making the...

Gifts and Qualifying for Medicaid for Nursing Home Care

If you or your spouse give away money or property to anyone for less than fair market value, you may not be eligible for...

Telephone Slamming

Telephone slamming occurs when a telephone company changes your telephone service without your consent. Slamming is...

Prescription Drug Patient Assistance Programs – Free or Low Cost Medications

Having a tough time stretching your budget to pay for expensive medications? A prescription drug patient assistance...

Soy un trabajador de H-2A. ¿Debe mi empleador retener impuestos de mi pago?

Soy un trabajador con visa H-2A. ¿Debería mi empleador retener impuestos de mi sueldo? En los Estados Unidos Hay un dicho...

Emeritus Attorney Opportunities

Thank you for your interest in becoming an emeritus attorney with Iowa Legal Aid.  Your help in providing legal...

Food Assistance in a Disaster (Food Stamps)

I have a food stamp Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card from Iowa. Can I use it in another state where I am staying?...

Do you really need a bankruptcy?

A Chapter 7 Bankruptcy is a process under federal law designed to help people who can no longer afford to pay off the debt...

¿Ha solicitado usted una exención de tasas escolares?

Las tasas escolares ciertamente pueden hacerse costosas. Si usted tiene más de un hijo en la escuela, las tasas pueden...

Ley de Propietarios e Inquilinos Cuestiones y Respuestas

¿Están todos los alquileres de casas cubiertos por la misma ley de Iowa? No. La mayoría de alquileres normales están...

Disaster Legal Hotlines

Iowa Legal Aid currently runs two hotlines for disaster issues. One is for the 2020 and 2021 derechos in 2020 and 2021. The...

Informes y registros de abuso de menores

¿Qué se considera abuso de menores en Iowa? Las siguientes acciones se consideran abuso de menores en Iowa: el abuso...

Tenga cuidado con los estafadores de impuestos

Los estafadores han estado llamando a inmigrantes en todo el país. En estas llamadas dicen que son empleados del IRS. Ellos...

Child Abuse Reports and Registries

What is considered child abuse in Iowa? The following actions are child abuse in Iowa: physical abuse, mental injury,...

IRS 990 form

Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax Form 990 2023 ila-public-disclosure-990Download

A Path to Safety for Natasha and Her Five Children

Iowa Legal Aid represented Natasha, a domestic abuse survivor, and her five children through our Waterloo Regional Office...

Eviction Diversion Help Desks

Iowa Legal Aid currently operates six Eviction Help Desks throughout the state (see list below). These help desks are all...

El reembolso de FEMA

¿Qué es el reembolso de FEMA? Después de que ocurre un desastre, la Agencia Federal de Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus...

Types of Notices from Landlords

Landlords nearly always have to give a tenant a written notice before filing an eviction case. The notice required in...

Caring for Our Minor Children After We’re Gone

Background Iowa Legal Aid staff answer a lot of questions from clients about what will happen to their minor child after...

What Is Discrimination in Housing?

(Section 216.8 & 8A, and 216.12, Code of Iowa) (United States Code, Volume 42, Sections 3601 and following.) What Is it...

Business Contract and Commercial Lease Issues

What should I do if I can’t pay my commercial lease for my business? Commercial or business tenants do not enjoy the same...

Shopping for an Assistive Technology Device

Persons with disabilities may face challenges with everyday tasks like getting around, speaking or reading. "Assistive...

Finding Housing with a Criminal Record

A past criminal case can make it hard to find housing. Many landlords will not rent to someone with a criminal record....

Lost Pension Plans

Question:   I worked for ABC Company for about 15 years from 1995 to 2010. It had a pension plan and when I left they told...

For-Profit Colleges: A Closer Look at Technical Schools and Employability

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Iowa Attorney General’s Office looked at for-profit schools.  For-profit...

FEMA Recoupment

What is FEMA Recoupment? After a disaster happens, FEMA tries to give people help as soon as they can. They often do this...

Towed Cars

People have many questions when they come outside and find their car is missing. This article will answer some questions...

Can the School Make Me Get a Guardianship in Order to Enroll Children I Am Taking Care Of?

Sometimes, parents are unable to take care of their kids. The parents may have died, or be ill or absent. When parents...

La Ley para la Protección de los Trabajadores Agrícolas Migratorios y Estacionales (AWPA, por sus siglas en inglés)

¿Qué es La Ley para la Protección de los Trabajadores Agrícolas Migratorios y Estacionales (AWPA)? La Ley para la...

Domestic Abuse Questions and Answers

What is Domestic Abuse? Domestic abuse is an assault between people in certain types of relationships. What is considered...

Veterans’ Issues Fact Sheet: Overpayments

You got a letter from the VA saying you were overpaid. You cannot afford to pay the money back. In fact, you are barely...

El Ausentismo Escolar

Los niños pueden faltar a la escuela por muchas razones. Es posible que los niños estén enfermos, tengan miedo de sufrir...

Contratos de Vivienda y Terreno

Todos trabajadores tienen el derecho a una vivienda digna, higiénica y segura. Hay leyes estatales y federales que protegen...

Privacy Policy

Iowa Legal Aid Internet Privacy Policy Your privacy is important to us. Our Privacy Policy describes how we collect and use...

Don’t Let a Legal Question Turn Into a Legal Problem

Nip it in the Bud! Legal questions ignored can turn a small problem into a big problem. If you put your head in the sand...

What To Do If Someone Sues You After an Accident

If someone is injured by a car accident you cause, what happens if you are sued?  If you are sued, what can you do to...

Mobile Homes in Iowa

This resource concerns the purchase of a mobile home and the rental of lot space for a mobile home. If the mobile home...

Life After a Juvenile Record

Juvenile Record Causing Problems? How "Sealing" Can Help, gives an overview of juvenile records and what steps a...

Protect Yourself with Affordable Car Insurance

Iowa drivers and owners of vehicles need to consider how damages will be covered if they are in an accident or if their car...

Tax Reduction for Low Income Iowans Owning Mobile Homes

There is no disability or elderly requirement for this benefit.  Iowans over 23 years of age at the end of 2025 with...

Utilities and Medical Concerns

“My electric or gas utilities just got shut off or will be shut off.  Can I get them back or keep them on for medical...

Como las Leyes de Inmigración afectan a víctimas inmigrantes de la violencia doméstica

Alicia vino a Iowa en 1982. Ella está casada a un residente legal permanente. Su marido le dijo que ella tenía que tener...

Demandas por Tarjetas de Crédito

Me han Demandado por la Deuda de una Tarjeta de Crédito. ¿Qué Debo Hacer? Cuando a usted se le entrega una notificación de...

Find a Location for Free Tax Help

Iowa Legal Aid's Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) is a special project that can help low-income Iowans. Providing...

El Ausentismo Escolar

Los niños pueden faltar a la escuela por muchas razones. Es posible que los niños estén enfermos, tengan miedo de sufrir...

What Can I Do When I Owe Taxes, Court Debt or Other Debts to the State of Iowa?

You cannot register your car. Your operator, hunting, or professional license has been suspended. The state is garnishing...

Acoso Sexual en El Trabajo

Usted tiene derecho a no sufrir acoso sexual en el trabajo. El acoso sexual en el trabajo es una forma de discriminación...

Repayment of Medicaid under Iowa’s Estate Recovery Law

General:  Iowa’s Estate Recovery law requires the State of Iowa to be reimbursed from the estate of a person who has...

Inmigración

¿Necesito ser residente o ciudadano de los Estados Unidos para solicitar ayuda de emergencia en caso de un desastre? No....

Adult Guardianship and the Right to Communicate

Adults Under Guardianships Have Rights Too A person under a guardianship is called the protected person. The person who...

I Lost My House and Now I Owe Taxes?

My home was foreclosed on. I just got a statement from the bank saying I have to report income because of the foreclosure....

El número de identificación personal del contribuyente o ITIN

¿Por qué debo presentar una declaración de impuestos o pagar impuestos? Aunque muchas personas consideran el pago de...

The Basic Rules of Credit Cards

Credit cards are a source of credit, not a source of income.  Using a credit card when you don't have enough...

Disaster Documents Checklist

DO NOT RISK YOUR LIFE TO COLLECT THESE ITEMS AT THE LAST MINUTE. Gather them in advance in case you must leave your...

Automatic Payments from Your Bank Account: Know Your Rights

It is becoming more and more common to use recurring automatic electronic payments to pay bills.  “Recurring automatic...

Senior Citizens’ Guide to Fair Housing

Many people think of fair housing laws as dealing only with race. In 1988, the Fair Housing Law was changed to include...

Predatory Lending – Don’t Be a Victim

Iowans should take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of a "Predatory Lender." Predatory lenders take advantage of...

Taxes and Marriage

When discussing taxes and marriage, there are a few myths to be examined and pitfalls to avoid. Myths Myth 1: I have to...

La Ley de Normas Justas de Trabajo (FLSA) ayuda a los trabajadores agrícolas y otros trabajadores obtener su salario justo

La Ley de Normas Justas de Trabajo (FLSA, por sus siglas en inglés) es una ley federal que establece normas para sueldo...

Supporting Iowa’s Seniors

As Iowa’s population ages, more older Iowans face legal challenges that put their health, housing, and independence at...

Adolecentes: prueba de relaciones saludables

Prueba de una relación saludable: Si contestas sí a cualquiera de estas preguntas, tu relación no es tan saludable como tú...

Home Insurance Issues

How can I make sure I get my insurance company to pay? You first have to make a claim. You may have claims under...

Determining if Guardianship or Conservatorship is Necessary

Is a guardianship or conservatorship needed?   Family members often take on informal decision-making roles for a...

It is Illegal for Someone to Force you to Work or Have Sex

 - Has anyone ever made you work when you couldn’t or charged you a fee for finding a job?   - Has your supervisor ever...

Disaster Declarations – State and Federal

Extreme weather happens every year in Iowa.   Disaster declarations are made for everything from blizzards and...

Get Your FREE Credit Report

www.annualcreditreport.com Fight identity theft by monitoring and reviewing your credit report. You may request your free...

Courts and Agencies Must Provide Interpreters for People Who do not Speak English

Many law suits are filed every day. People involved in a lawsuit may feel worried or afraid about what will happen. The...

Disaster Mental Health Services

Mental Health Resources for Those Affected by Disasters Disasters occur often and generally without notice.  In the...

Odometer Fraud

Making sure the odometer is correct is an important part of getting the facts about a car before you buy it. Odometer...

Individual Education Plans

Children with disabilities have rights under federal and Iowa laws.  The main law is the Individuals with Disabilities...

¿Cómo consigo que mi propietario haga reparaciones?

La mayoría de la gente sabe que si usted es un inquilino y no paga la renta, el propietario puede desalojarle. Pero, ¿qué...

Pre-Need Funeral Arrangements – Pros and Cons

There are many advantages to planning and paying for your funeral in advance. Pre-need funeral arrangements let you choose...

Iowa Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-770-1650

The Iowa Domestic Violence Hotline originates from the Iowa Victim Services Call Center. Their website...

Evitar Estafas

¿Qué sucede si alguien dice que es de la División de Seguros o mi compañía de seguros y ofrece acelerar mi reclamación si...

Denegar vivienda a los sobrevivientes de la violencia doméstica puede ser una violación de las Leyes

Todo el mundo encuentra difícil encontrar una vivienda decente y económica. Es posible que mujeres que son sobrevivientes...

How Do I Fill Out My W-4?

When you start working you will need to fill out a form to set the amount of taxes that will be taken out of your check...

Common Issues in Qualifying for Unemployment Benefits:

The sudden loss of a job can be devastating. The income of the job is gone but bills still must be paid. Unemployment...

What Happens with Child Custody when a Parent is Deployed

When parents are deployed, custody and visitation arrangements may have to change. The law sets out some things to do when...

Custody Order for Parents with Open CINA Cases

Parents involved in open Child in Need of Assistance (CINA) cases have a way to get a court to order permanent custody,...

Iowa’s Health Insurance Marketplace

What is Iowa’s Health Insurance Marketplace? Iowa’s Health Insurance Marketplace was created by the Affordable Care Act as...

From Crisis to Stability

Iowa Legal Aid was appointed to represent Ashley after her children were removed due to substance abuse.

Direct Express Cards

Most people now get their monthly Social Security benefits on a debit card or through direct deposit instead of a check in...

Fact-Finding Hearings and Appeals for Unemployment Benefits

*NOTE: This article discusses the process for traditional unemployment benefits.  There are additional federal...

Divorcio – Preguntas y Respuestas

¿Qué debería saber yo sobre el divorcio en Iowa? •    No es difícil obtener un divorcio, pero sí toma...

What Filing Status Do I Use for my Taxes?

Your filing status can influence the amount of the standard deduction, the amount of tax, and the amount of or eligibility...

Audiencias para determinar los hechos y apelaciones para beneficios por desempleo

*NOTA: Este artículo discute el proceso de los beneficios por desempleo tradicionales. Hay beneficios federales adicionales...

Guardianship and Conservatorship: Your Rights as a Protected Person

Guardianship If you have a guardianship, you still have rights. You and your guardian may not always agree.  A...

Problemas comunes para cumplir con los requisitos de los beneficios por desempleo

La pérdida repentina de un trabajo puede ser devastadora. Los ingresos del trabajo se han ido, pero todavía hay que pagar...

Legal Rights of Agricultural Workers

Legal protections for migrant and seasonal workers:   The Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act...

Small Claims Informational Booklet

Download our booklet on small claims court: small-claims-booklet-(electronic)Download

Guardianship and Conservatorship: Words to Know

Agent –in a power of attorney, it means the person who gets the power to act on behalf of the principal. Authority – the...

Divorce Questions and Answers

What should I know about divorce in Iowa? How long must I live in Iowa before I can file for a divorce? Should I separate...

Doctor-Patient Privilege In Civil Court Cases

"A practicing. . . counselor, physician,. . .[or] mental health profaessional, . . . who obtains information by reason of...

Denying Housing to Survivors of Domestic Violence May Violate Fair Housing Laws

It is hard enough for anyone to find decent, affordable housing. Finding housing may be even harder for women who are...

Actualizar su presentación de impuestos no tiene que ser difícil

Me atrasé en la presentación de mis declaraciones de impuestos y deseo ponerme al día. ¿Cómo lo hago? El IRS tiene...

Trata Laboral en la Agricultura

¿Qué es la trata laboral?  La Ley federal de Protección a las Víctimas de la Trata define la trata laboral como el...

Your Health in the Workplace

Workers’ disability compensation (compensation to workers who are injured in the workplace) will pay you if you are injured...

Mortgage Foreclosures and Land Contract Forfeitures

People are usually not able to pay in full when they buy a home. As a result, most Iowans finance homes through either a...

Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

You have the right to be free from sexual harassment in the workplace. Sexual harassment in the workplace is a form of sex...

Consumers and Bail Bonds

Most people spend very little time thinking about bail bondsmen —up until the moment a loved one lands in jail. When a...

Protecting Yourself from Telephone Marketing Fraud

Telemarketers often use illegal and deceptive practices such as contests, free prizes, sweepstakes, fake charities and...

Protegiendo a los ancianos de Iowa del abuso

El abuso de ancianos: qué es y qué se debe hacer Existe una ley que protege a los ancianos de Iowa del abuso. La ley amplía...

Warranties

Federal law requires dealers to put a "Buyer's Guide" sticker on used cars. The Buyer's Guide tells you if there is a...

Replacing Lost Documents After A Disaster

A disaster often hits without warning.  Important documents can be lost during a disaster.  This can make it...

Rental Deposits

What Is a Rental Deposit? When a house or apartment is rented, a landlord usually collects in advance a rental deposit,...

Veterans’ Issues Fact Sheet: VA Compensation

Are you a Veteran with a disability or other health problem related to your service? You may be eligible for VA...

Settle your Tax debt for Cents on the Dollar

This is a common phrase you hear on television ads. There are a number of tax settlement firms that advertize on TV....

Financing a Used Car

When you're looking for a new used vehicle, there are several places to shop. Franchised new car dealers have newer used...

Employment Rights

Protect Yourself: Keep track of your hours! Write down the hours that each person in your family works every day. At...

Iowa’s Domestic Violence Firearm Law

Federal law prohibits firearm possession by those convicted of a domestic violence misdemeanor and those subject to a...

Grandparent Visitation in Iowa

In Iowa, a grandparent or great-grandparent can ask a court to grant visitation with their grandchildren or...

Custody Questions and Answers

Who has custody when a child is born to an unmarried mother? How is paternity of a child established? What does it mean to...

¿Me pueden embargar el auto?

Lea esto en:English

El privilegio médico-paciente en los procesos civiles

“Todo consejero, médico… [o] profesional de la salud mental… que obtenga información sobre una persona en el ejercicio de...

Ausentismo escolar

Los niños pueden faltar a la escuela por muchas razones. Es posible que los estudiantes estén enfermos, tengan miedo de...

Immigration and Citizenship

Obtaining legal immigration status. The most common way that an agricultural worker and his/her family can obtain legal...

Procedimentos de Queja

Descargar Complaint Procedures Spanish - 2025Download

My Refund Was Taken – What Can I Do?

Tax Refunds can be taken by both the state of Iowa Department of Revenue and by the Internal Revenue Service. Your refund...

Dealing With Medical Debt

Illness and injury can cause stress in our lives. When illness and injury lead to medical bills not covered by health...

How to Recognize Employment Discrimination

In Iowa, most workers are "at the will" of the boss. This means the boss can fire workers at any time. The only time a...

Landlord Notices of Clear and Present Danger-Protections for Victims of Domestic or Sex Abuse

Special Protections for Victims of Domestic and/or Sex Abuse For a survivor of domestic abuse, getting a protective order...

Have You Applied for a Waiver of School Fees?

School fees can really add up. If you have more than one child in school, the fees can come to hundreds of dollars. Many...

Representación Limitada (servicios jurídicos desagregados)

¿Qué es la representación limitada? A veces se refiere como: Representación Limitada Servicio limitado Representación legal...

60 Month Lifetime Limit on FIP Benefits

The Family Investment Program (FIP) is what Iowa calls its Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or welfare...

Emancipación y tutelas de menoes

A los hijos no se les permite que tomen sus propias decisiones. En lugar de eso, dependen de sus padres para ayudarles a...

Farmworkers’ Rights

Farmworkers have many important legal rights. The following is a summary of some of the important rights and...

Pension Rights: Mergers and Acquisitions

Question:  I work for a company with a defined benefit pension plan that just announced it would merge into...

El Proceso de Apelación de FEMA

¿Quépasa si no estoy de acuerdo con la cantidad de dinero que el FEMA me va a dar? Después de presentar su solicitud de...

Catching up on Filing Taxes Doesn’t Have to Be Hard …(It can even be rewarding!)

I got behind on filing my tax returns and I want to catch up. How do I do it? The IRS has tax forms and...

Protecting Your 401(K) Plan

Question:  I'm a 20-year employee of a company that has a 401(k) plan. I've been told I am fully vested and am thinking...

Do I Have to Sell or Liquidate All of My Assets to Qualify for Medicaid?

Most Medicaid programs have an asset or “resource” limit.  Many assets or resources, however, are “exempt,” meaning...

Landlord and Tenant Law Questions and Answers

Got Questions About Your Rights as a Renter in Iowa? Whether you’re facing eviction, struggling with repairs, or...

¿Cómo recupero mis posesiones? Lo que usted debe saber sobre los casos de reivindicación de bienes muebles en Iowa

¿Qué es la "reivindicación de bienes muebles"? La mayoría de las veces, las demandas que la gente presenta piden a un...

¿De verdad necesita usted una bancarrota?

Una bancarrota por Capítulo 7 es un proceso bajo la ley federal diseñado para ayudar a gente que ya no puede pagar la deuda...

Involuntary Transfers from Nursing Homes

Moving into a nursing home can be a traumatic event for many people. Surroundings are not familiar. The person loses a...

Juvenile Court Questions and Answers

Juvenile Courts generally handle cases dealing with children under the age of eighteen. What Kinds of Cases Does the...

Paying for Utilities

Utility bills can strain the budgets of many Iowans. This is especially true for Iowans who are elderly or have a...

How Can I Get a Civil Protection Order?

What is a Civil Protection Order? A civil protection order is a court order that tells an abuser to stay away from a victim...

Affidavits

What is an affidavit? Affidavits are written statements that are sworn under oath. Sometimes affidavits are signed in front...

Iowa Legal Aid’s Justice Bus Hits the Road to Help Disaster Survivors & Rural Areas

Iowa Legal Aid recently launched its new Justice Bus, a mobile law office bringing free legal services to rural and...

¡Reclame todos los créditos tributarios de sus ingresos de trabajo (EIC) que se ha ganado!

¿Cuánto dinero puedo obtener? Si usted tiene hijos que califican, usted puede obtener hasta $6,935 dólares del EIC. Si...

Getting a Temporary Restricted License (TRL)

Who Needs a TRL? Many persons need a temporary restricted license (TRL) to handle life's daily responsibilities- getting to...

Domestic Violence and Immigrants

What is domestic violence? Domestic violence is a pattern of abuse in which one individual uses tactics to control...

Iowa Legal Aid Pilots New Approach to Prevent Homelessness

Iowa Legal Aid was recently selected by the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) as a winner of its second annual Innovation in...

Big Grove Brewery unveils fundraising beer for Iowa Legal Aid

Read the full article from The Daily Iowan below.

What is “Notice” in a Court Case and How Is It Done?

When you file a case in court, you have to give the other person(s) notice. Here is some information on what notice is and...

How Do the Police Protect Victims of Domestic Abuse?

Often, police or other law enforcement officers respond to calls for help and have contact with domestic abuse victims in...

Su Salud en Los Campos

Los Pesticidas  Los trabajadores del campo y sus familias pueden estar en contacto frecuente con exposición a los...

Avoiding Ripoffs From Contractors and Insurance

What if someone says he is from the Insurance Division or my insurance company and offers to speed up my claim if I pay him...

You Have Rights When Your Work Ends!

Has this happened to you?  You live in a house, trailer, or migrant labor camp and you are fired or let go from your work....

Who Are Iowa’s Farmworkers?

Who are Iowa's Farmworkers? Every year thousands of farmworkers are hired in Iowa. Many of these workers do not live in...

Wage Payment Collection

Are you having problems collecting wages owed to you or problems not being paid regularly? There is a law in Iowa to help...

Help With Phone Equipment for Iowans with a Hearing Disability

If you are an Iowan and have a hearing disability, you can get help with a special phone or other equipment to make it...

Credit Card Lawsuits

I have been sued for a credit card debt. What do I need to do? When you are served with a lawsuit, you will have 20 days...

Preguntas y respuestas sobre manutención de hijos

¿Quién emite las órdenes de manutención de hijos? Las órdenes de manutención de hijos se establecen usando, o bien un...

Review Your Medicare Part D Prescription

Many people who are enrolled in Medicare have the costs of their prescription drugs partially covered by a Medicare Part D...

Repossession: The Rules a Creditor Must Follow to Take Your Personal Property

A "creditor" is someone you owe money.  Sometimes a creditor can "repossess" your personal property if you do not pay...

Survivor Benefits

Question. My husband recently passed away. His monthly pension check pays many of our bills. Will these payments continue?...

Water Service Shutoffs

Water service is an essential service like electricity and gas. These essential services are called "utilities." There are...

Lifeline Discounted Phone Program

There is a program called Lifeline that helps low-income Iowans pay for basic telephone or internet service.  Lifeline...

Housing and Land Contracts

Everyone has the legal right to decent, safe, and sanitary housing. Farmworkers are protected by state and federal laws...

Ejecuciones hipotecarias  y rescisiones de contratos de propiedad

Por lo general, las personas no pueden pagar el precio en efectivo al comprar una vivienda. Como resultado, la mayoría de...

Payday Loans – a Convenience You Can’t Afford!

Many Iowans, including elderly Iowans, are relying on "Payday" loans to help make ends meet. (Sometimes these loans are...

Medicaid Payment for Nursing Home Care

Need Medicaid but your income is too high? You may still qualify with a Miller Trust (Medical Assistance Income Trust)....

Should You Take Your Pension In A Lump Sum?

Some companies may offer to cash out the pensions of certain retirees and instead give them one lump-sum payment. ...

Your Health in the Fields

Pesticides  Farmworkers and their families may be in frequent contact with pesticides. If you come into contact with...

Finding a Nursing Home

No one wants to go to a nursing home if they can live safely in their own home.  However, if you require health...

Debtor’s Exams

If you owe money under a court judgment, you may be ordered to go to the court for a debtor's exam. Do not ignore this...

Miller Trusts: Helping Pay for Nursing Home Care

Many people worry about how they will pay for nursing home care if it becomes necessary.  The Iowa Department of...

Renter’s Insurance

Are you protected if a disaster hits your rental home?  Where will you go if repairs need to be made to your apartment...

Payroll Cards

How are you paid? Most workers get paid by check or by direct deposit. Some specialized workers, such as waiters, may get...

Garnishment in Iowa

What is garnishment? Garnishment is when your money is taken from someone other than you to pay a court judgment.  For...

Veterans’ Issues Fact Sheet: VA Pensions

VA Pensions Are you a Veteran with a disability or other health problem NOT related to your service? You may be eligible...

Children Have A Right To Education

All children, regardless of citizenship status, have the right to attend a public school without cost. The U.S. Supreme...

The Rights of H-2A Workers

The federal H-2A visa program allows agricultural employers in the United States to hire workers from other countries with...

Licensing Your Vehicle

If you buy a used vehicle from a licensed auto dealer, the dealer will take care of licensing and registration of the...

H-2A Workers and Tax Withholding

In the U.S. there is a very common saying: “There are two things that are certain, death and paying taxes.” Most people who...

2023 Iowa Legal Aid Impact by County

Hope. Dignity. Justice. They’re not just words, but values that Iowa Legal Aid embraces each and every day as we work to...

Mi único ingreso es el Seguro Social. ¿Tengo que pagar impuestos sobre mis beneficios?

Eso depende. El Servicio de Impuestos Internos (IRS, por sus siglas en inglés) revisa sus ingresos totales para determinar...

What Are The Policies at Your Child’s School?

Most parents help their children get ready for school by getting their school supplies and gym clothes ready each fall. A...

Human Trafficking: Modern Day Slavery

There is a form of slavery happening throughout the country called human trafficking.  Human trafficking is when a...

Fraude de Paternidad

Una decisión de la Corte Suprema de Iowa dice que un hombre podría traer una demanda en la siguiente situación: La madre de...

Rural Justice Project for Older Iowans

Iowa Legal Aid is seeking potential clients (ages 60+), agency partners, and educational opportunities to inform about...

Preguntas y respuestas para arrendatarios sobre las chinches

Aunque se pensaba que prácticamente se habían eliminado en los EE. UU., las chinches han vuelto a convertirse en un...

How Can I Use My FEMA Money?

A disaster damaged your home.  You applied for FEMA help.  FEMA will meet with you and inspect your home. ...

Reemplazo de documentos perdidos

Un desastre usualmente ocurre sin previo aviso.  La pérdida de documentos importantes es posible durante un...

Adoption Records in Iowa

State law regulates the adoption process, including how much information is available to an adoptee, adoptive parent(s),...

The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act

The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) is an Iowa law. It says which state's courts can make...

Assisted Living Program – Is This for Me?

Assisted living programs are found in a housing facility that also provides additional health-related care, personal care,...

Education and Schools After A Disaster

Many school-age children are displaced by disasters. They have all the rights federal law gives to children who have lost...

Encontrar vivienda cuando se tienen antecedentes penales

Un pasado caso penal puede dificultar el encontrar vivienda. Muchos propietarios no quieren alquilar a alguien que tenga...

LIHEAP Rules Require Social Security Numbers and Protect Deployed Servicemembers

Community Action Programs continue to help low-income Iowans pay home heating bills with "LIHEAP" or Low-Income Home Energy...

Assistive Technology and Rights of Persons With Disabilities

People with disabilities, including those who use assistive technology, have many rights. Here is just a summary of some...

Programs and Services of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

What kind of benefits does FEMA provide? FEMA's main program for people suffering damage or displacement from a disaster is...

Don’t Make Things Difficult For Those You Love–Plan Ahead

The Importance of Legal Planning It is important to plan ahead for your family and loved ones to help in illness or to deal...

Protecting Elderly Iowans from Abuse

Elder Abuse - What It Is and What to Do About It There is a law protecting elderly Iowans against abuse. The law...

Social Security after a Disaster

What if I did not get my latest Social Security or SSI benefits? If you live in a disaster area, ask your local post office...

Tenants: Protect Yourself in Rental Agreements

When clients come into our office due to a landlord-tenant dispute, one of the first questions we ask them is what kind of...

Refinancing a Loan

A lot of people try to deal with debt by refinancing their loans. Refinancing means paying an old debt with a new debt....

Inquilinos: protéjanse en los acuerdos de alquiler

Cuando clientes vienen a nuestra oficina con una disputa con sus caseros, una de las primeras preguntas que hacemos qué...

Labor Trafficking in Agriculture

What is labor trafficking?  The federal Trafficking Victims Protection Act defines labor trafficking as the...

Iowa Legal Aid Disaster Legal Assistance Mobile App

Iowa Legal Aid Disaster Legal Assistance Mobile App Available in the iTunes and Google Play Stores Here: Download app for...

Los inmigrantes y el mercado de atención médica de la Ley del Cuidado de Salud a Bajo Costo

Tener cobertura de seguro médico en los Estados Unidos es importante. Desafortunadamente, muchas familias no pueden obtener...

Rent Reimbursement and Property Tax Credits

Rent Reimbursement and Property Tax Credits for Iowans who are Elderly or Have a Disability Each year, Iowans who are...

Fathers’ Rights in Unmarried Situations

Becoming a father is a great experience. With the joy of a new child, come many new duties.Parents make many decisions...

Bankruptcy Issues After A Disaster

I lost everything because of a natural disaster. Will it help me to file bankruptcy? It depends on your situation....

Beware of Bad Tax Advice and Unreliable Return Preparation

We have all heard the saying that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Well, this saying certainly can apply...

Resolving Family Law Problems Through Mediation

Many Iowans' only contact with the court system is when a family law problem arises. There may be a divorce or custody...

Do You Have a Junk Mail Problem?

Getting Off Mailing Lists To receive less commercial advertising mail, you can register for The Direct Marketing...

Buying a House

Some people who buy a home borrow the money from a bank or other lender. The seller gets paid in full for the property, and...

Asuntos Financieros de los Residentes de Tercera Edad de Iowa

Muchos residentes mayores de Iowa se pueden encontrar en una situación desconocida con los asuntos financieros,...

Juvenile Record Causing Problems? How “Sealing” Can Help

How do you get a juvenile record? You may have a juvenile record if you were accused of doing something illegal when you...

Alternatives to Guardianship and Conservatorship

Many people have situations where a family member may need help with decisions or daily activities, such as paying bills or...

Funeral Planning

Your funeral may be one of the most expensive consumer purchases you or your family ever makes. Most people, however, do...

¡Usted Tiene Derechos Cuando Termina Su Trabajo!

¿Le ha pasado esto?:  Usted vive en un campo de migrantes y le despiden o deja el trabajo. El patrón le dice que usted...

Which State Can Make Decisions about Guardianships and Conservatorships?

Iowa has the power to appoint a guardian or conservator if Iowa is the "home state" of the respondent to a guardianship or...

How Social Media Can Be Used Against People in Family Law Cases

Some of the most popular places on the Internet are social media sites. It is easy for people to create their own pages and...

Public Benefits and Car Ownership

Iowans can have one dependable car and still get welfare benefits, food assistance and Medicaid benefits. Welfare (FIP) and...

Iowa Individual Disaster Assistance Grant Program

After a disaster happens, the Iowa governor can issue a state disaster declaration for a county or group of counties. ...

FEMA Application and Assistance Overview

A Guide to FEMA Assistance FEMA can assist with temporary housing, repair or replacement costs, and other disaster needs...

The Golden Years and Debt

Major changes older people face often have a dramatic impact on their finances. Someone who is not realistic in dealing...

Financial Matters for Older Iowans

Many older Iowans may find themselves in unfamiliar territory when it comes to financial matters, especially after the...

Can They Repossess My Car?

Sometimes a car buyer cannot make payments. He or she stops paying the amount the contract requires. The borrower (person...

Did You Pay For Divorce Forms?

Iowa has free self help forms for a divorce with or without minor children and for custody cases. You can find the forms on...

Risks of Paying Bills Online

It wasn’t that long ago when most of us would sit down at our desks or kitchen tables, gather all of the bills that...

Mechanic’s Lien

What is a mechanic's lien? If you make an agreement with someone to do work on your property, that person is a “general...

What You Need to Know about Property Taxes

Maybe you just paid off your mortgage (congratulations!) or perhaps your aunt died and left you her house. You know you...

Disaster Struck My Rental Property, Now What?

In a disaster, time can seem to move both too slowly for some things and too fast for others.  If you have been...

Disaster Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (Disaster Food Stamps)

What is the Disaster Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program? This program is also called disaster food stamps. ...

Seguro para inquilinos

¿Usted tiene protección en caso de que un desastre natural afecte a su casa alquilada?  ¿A dónde iría en caso de...

Debts “Written Off” May Count as Taxable Income

Many people do not know that having a debt "written off" or forgiven may count as taxable income. When income is taxable,...

Legal Aid Helps Women Experiencing Violence

Iowa Legal Aid helps clients who experience intimate partner violence (IPV). Iowa Legal Aid gives civil legal help in...

Waiting Lists and Public Housing

Q: I have applied for a voucher, but it may take two years or more for my name to come up. What can I do? A: Most Public...

From Sleepless Nights to Peace of Mind

Dennis and Pricilla moved to western Iowa from California in 2007, buying a home before their California house sold.

Private Rooms and Nursing Home Residents on Title 19

Many elderly Iowans enter nursing homes after living privately in their own homes or apartments. When entering a nursing...

Programa de exención para mantener a personas mayores fuera de las residencias de ancianos

¿Qué es el programa de exención para personas mayores? Iowa tiene un programa de Medicaid para ayudar a la gente que...

The Fair Labor Standards Act Helps Farmworks & Other Workers Get Their Fair Pay

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is a federal law that sets standards for minimum wage, overtime pay, and other...

Facing Foreclosure? Tips to Help Restructure Debt and Deal with Mortgage Companies

When the foreclosure process starts or is just around the corner, homeowners must decide whether to stay in the home or...

How do I get my stuff back? What to know about replevin cases in Iowa

What is "replevin?" Most of the time, lawsuits people file ask a court to give someone money to compensate them for...

Paternity Fraud

Before You Tell Him He’s The Father…. An Iowa Supreme Court case says a man could bring a law suit in the following...

A Spouse’s Right to Retirement Assets (including Pensions) in a Divorce

Question: My husband recently filed for divorce. He works for a company that has an excellent pension plan. Although I am...

Safe at Home Program

Survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other violent crimes are able to sign up for a program to help keep them...

Assistive Technology and Protecting Rights in Education

Many children with disabilities use assistive technology (AT) to help them learn or function at school. The need for some...

Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (AWPA)

What is the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (AWPA)? The Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker...

Preparativos de Arreglos de Funeral – Pros y Contras

Hay muchas ventajas al planear y pagar por su funeral por adelantado. Preparativos de arreglos de funeral necesitados le...

Know How to Hold it – Pros and Cons of Certain Types of Property Ownership

The manner in which you own your property can have important consequences. The common forms of ownership are sole...

Iowa State Bar Foundation Awards Housing Grant

A grant from the Iowa State Bar Foundation will help Iowa Legal Aid continue its statewide housing stability project,...

Derechos de Trabajadores Agrícolas

Los trabajadores agrícolas tienen importantes derechos legales. El siguiente es un resumen de algunos derechos importantes...

How Immigration Laws Impact Immigrant Victims of Domestic Violence

Alicia came to Iowa in 1982. She is married to a legal permanent resident. Her spouse said she must have thirteen children...

Órdenes penales de alejamiento y órdenes civiles de protección

Mucho de lo que aprendemos de la ley es de la televisión. Sabemos que la policía arresta a personas y les ponen cargos...

The Effective Date of your Veterans Affairs Compensation or Pension Claim

The “effective date” of a claim for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Compensation or Pension runs from whichever is...

Transfers and Discharges from Nursing Homes

An attempt to transfer or discharge a resident from a nursing home against his or her wishes can be upsetting and...

Las cortes y agencias deben proporcionar intérpretes para las personas que no hablan inglés

Cada día se presentan muchas demandas legales. Las personas involucradas en una demanda legal se pueden sentir preocupadas...

Wills and Probate Questions & Answers

What happens to my property at my death? When people living in Iowa die, their property is transferred to other people in...

Violencia Doméstica y Los Inmigrantes

¿Qué es “violencia doméstica”?  La violencia doméstica es un tipo de abuso en que una persona utiliza varios métodos o...

La suspensión de impuestos a la propiedad para las personas que reciben Ingresos de Seguridad Suplementaria (SSI)

Muchas personas con una incapacidad son dueños o están en el proceso de comprar su casa. Es posible que les sea difícil...

Can I Expunge My Adult Criminal Conviction in Iowa?

The State of Iowa’s policy is to keep most criminal records public.  The criminal court docket is online for anyone to...

Programa de Subvención del Estado de Iowa para Individuos en Caso de un Desastre Natural

Después de un desastre natural, el gobernador de Iowa puede emitir una declaración de desastre estatal en un condado o en...

My only income is Social Security. Do I have to pay any taxes on my benefits?

It depends. The IRS looks at your total income to determine if your Social Security benefits are taxable. It also depends...

Getting the Health Care Services You Need

Has your insurance company, Medicare or Medicaid denied you help? You don't have to take no for an answer. How can I fight...

Asistencia alimentaria: ayudando a las familias a tener comida suficiente

El objetivo del programa de asistencia alimentaria es ayudar para que tenga más comida en su mesa. El programa está...

Appealing a Managed Care Organization (MCO) Decision

Iowa Medicaid has switched to Managed Care.  Almost everyone who has Medicaid in Iowa is now assigned to a Managed...

Cómo conseguir una licencia de conducir restringida temporal (TRL)

¿Quién necesita una TRL? Muchas personas necesitan una licencia de conducir restringida temporal (TRL, por sus siglas en...

Unemployment Benefits

If you lose your job, you may be eligible to receive unemployment benefits.  To be eligible for unemployment benefits...

Tax refunds for 2022 are going, going, almost gone…

"Don't lose your refund! Tax refunds for 2022 are going, going, almost gone..." Tax time is almost here! If you have not...

Preguntas y respuestas sobre violencia doméstica

¿Qué es violencia doméstica? Violencia doméstica es una agresión entre personas en ciertos tipos de relaciones. ¿Qué es...

Avoiding Pitfalls of Tax Time

During tax season you will hear many businesses offering to help you file your return. The question is, "Do I really want a...

Política de Privacidad de Internet

Su privacidad es importante para nosotros Nuestra política de privacidad describe cómo colectamos y usamos información...

Beware of Tax Scammers

Scammers saying they are IRS employees may try to scare taxpayers with harassing telephone calls or messages. The callers...

Derechos en el Empleo

Iowa Legal Aid desea que usted reciba todos los beneficios de su trabajo. Por favor comuníquese con nosotros si cree que su...

Breaking the Cycle

Tammy first connected with Iowa Legal Aid through the Community Schools Project for help with employment.

Consumer Title Loans

Before the Iowa Legislature changed the law in 2007, car title loans were a very expensive way to borrow money. Now the law...

Conducta Ilegal en la Recaudación de Deudas

La Acta de Recaudación Justa de Deudas y Practicas de Colección (Fair Debt Collection Practices Act), una ley federal...

Asistencia Alimenticia en caso de desastre (cupones de alimentación)

Tengo una tarjeta de Transferencia de Beneficios Electrónicos (EBT) de Iowa. ¿Puedo usarla en otro estado donde me quedo?...

Common Myths About Family Law

At Iowa Legal Aid, we talk to new clients daily. While each person’s situation is unique, we hear many of the same concerns...

Refinanciación

Muchas personas intentan a manejar deuda a través de la refinanciación de préstamos. Refinanciar significa pagar una deuda...

Rights of People in Civil Commitment

A person who is “mentally ill” and “dangerous” can be made to get mental health treatment. There are specific rules about...

Hawki Insurance for Children

Hawki is a health insurance program for children in Iowa. It covers some children whose household income is too high for...

Child Support Questions and Answers

Who makes child support orders? Orders for child support are established using either an administrative process or a court...

Teens: The Healthy Relationship Quiz

Healthy Relationship Test: If you answer yes to any of the following, your relationship is not as healthy as you deserve:...

Perdí mi casa y ¿ahora debo impuestos por ella?

Ejecutaron la hipoteca de mi casa. Acabo de recibir un informe bancario que dice que debo declarar mis ingresos debido a la...

Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Programs

Many Iowans need assistance to meet their health care needs. Sometimes that care must be provided by residential care...

Encontrar un Abogado.

Iowa Legal Aid no puede ayudar con este problema. Puede buscar un abogado en “Encontrar un Abogado” en el sitio web de la Asociación de Abogados del Estado de Iowa. Un abogado privado allí puede hablar con usted por una tarifa de $25 por 30 minutos de asesoramiento legal.